The federal government has moved another step forward in Pakistan’s development journey, as the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) approved three projects and referred four major schemes—including the Karachi–Lahore Motorway land acquisition plan—to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) for final approval.
The meeting was chaired by Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal, highlighted the government’s focus on strengthening
- Infrastructure
- Healthcare
- Education
- Energy projects
Major Projects Under Review
One of the most significant referrals was the Karachi–Lahore Motorway (KLM) land acquisition and relocation project, worth Rs 68.7 billion.
This mega scheme involves compensating affected property owners and shifting utilities to pave the way for the construction of the 959-kilometer-long motorway (excluding completed sections of M-9 and M-4).
Read more: Six-lane 134km M-10 motorway approved to connect Karachi directly to M-6 at Jamshoro
Officials emphasized that once finalized, the project would greatly enhance intercity connectivity, reduce travel time, and boost trade and logistics between Pakistan’s two largest cities.
Healthcare was also prioritized, with the Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cancer Treatment and Research in Lahore, a landmark project valued at nearly Rs 75 billion, referred to ECNEC. This institute aims to provide world-class cancer treatment and research facilities, filling a critical gap in specialized healthcare in the country.
In the energy sector, the Harpo Hydropower Project (34.5MW) was referred with a revised cost of Rs 34.3 billion, glanced as a vital step toward expanding renewable energy resources and minimizing dependence on imported fuel.
Approvals in Transport and Education
The CDWP ratified the construction of an eight-lane overhead bridge at Imamia Colony Railway Crossing, Shahdara, having worth Rs 4.6 billion, to simplify traffic blockage on the busy N-5 route.
Additionally, the revised “Action to Strengthen Performance for Inclusive and Responsive Education Program (TA Component)”, costing Rs 1.38 billion, was ratified to improve governance and inclusivity in the education sector.
Another major referral was the Balochistan Water Resources Development Sector Project for the Zhob and Mula River basins, which is revised to Rs 49.9 billion, addressing long-standing water scarcity in the province.
Minister Ahsan Iqbal stressed that these projects depict the zeal and zest of the gov to balance regional development and inclusive growth. Iqbal also granted concept clearance for exploring international financing for five proposals, three of which emphasize on agriculture in Balochistan—signaling renewed attention to food security and rural uplift.
If ratified by ECNEC, these projects could help massively in reshaping Pakistan’s infrastructure and service delivery, with direct benefits for millions of citizens.